Should B.C. teens get boosted? Advice for 12- to 17-year-olds as invitations go out

Youth considered high risk are being advised to get a booster shot, but others will be presented with the risks and benefits. What should they do? CTV News asked two experts.

On Thursday, the province began emailing and texting fully vaccinated 12- to 17-year-old British Columbians to let them know they are now eligible for boosters six months after their second shot, and that invitations to book appointments would be sent out soon.

University of British Columbia immunologist Dr. Kelly McNagny believes they should jump at the chance for a third vaccine.

“My personal opinion is you definitely should get boosted if you’re a teenager. It’s a great opportunity to make sure you’re not going to get very sick, and you’re not going to spread disease,” said McNagny.

But right now, the National Advisory Committee on Immunization is only officially recommending boosters for 12- to 17-year-olds who are considered high risk.

“And for others it is in NACI’s opinion, more of an optional risk-benefit analysis that you do yourself,” said provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry during a Tuesday news conference.

For healthy youth in that age group, the invitation will include information on the risks and benefits of boosters.

“And you will have the ability to make that decision and book yourself,” said Henry.